Table 2 Individual and couples-focused implementation strategies to engage young couples in SRH research

Eligibility & Identification

• Base couples’ eligibility primarily on the female couple member.

• Base couples’ eligibility on either the female or male couple member.

• Base couples’ eligibility on the IP. If the IP is not eligible, partner screening is not initiated.

• Base couples’ eligibility on either couple member. If the IP is not eligible, partner screening is still initiated to determine the couples’ eligibility.

• Identify key recruitment locations where youth congregate.

• Identify recruitment locations where young couples congregate.

• Identify key recruitment times and dates where youth congregate.

• Identify key recruitment times when young couples are around. Capitalize on important dates where couples may be together (e.g., Valentine’s Day).

Recruitment & Screening

• Develop general recruitment flyers that target the population of interest.

• Develop general recruitment flyers that are specific to gender (male or female) and recruitment approach (IP or NP). Ensure that the flyers include language that addresses the values and priorities of the target population.

• Provide a detailed study FAQ sheet for IPs to share with the NP, including a study overview, participation requirements, compensation, confidentiality, etc.

• Target/recruit and screen females. If eligible, the female partner and/or the research team recruits the male partner into the study.

• Target/recruit and screen either females or males. If eligible, the index participant and/or the research team recruits the nominated partner into the study.

• Target and screen individuals who may be in romantic/dating relationships. If eligible, the IP and/or the research team recruits the NP into the study; the NP calls in for screening at a later time.

• Target and screen couples together on the spot.

• Target and screen individuals who may be in romantic/dating relationships. If eligible, the IP contacts their NP on the spot (phone, Facetime, etc.). If the NP is available and interested, partner screening is initiated. If the NP is not available, the IP is coached on how to introduce the study to his/her partner and provided study materials to share with the NP.

Scheduling & Confirming Appointments

• Scheduling is facilitated through the index participant.

• For couples that are screened together, scheduling of the interviews should be conducted on the spot. Ensure that the recruitment team has staff/space availability.

• For couples that are screened individually, ask the IP to contact their NP to discuss scheduling. If not available, arrange a time to follow up when couples may be together.

• Direct all follow-up communication (i.e., appointment confirmation, reminders, rescheduling) to the IP.

• Direct all follow-up communication to both couple members using group messaging (e.g., text message, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, Facebook Messenger, etc.).

• Direct follow-up communication to the most responsive couple member.